Band Shoppe Asks... Part 1 - 7th Regiment

7th Regiment Shares Their Thoughts on Spring Training

In our three-part blog series; Band Shoppe Asks...

we are asking questions to our Drum Corps partners during the three stages of DCI's current season.

Part #1 kicks off with our friends at 7th Regiment Drum & Bugle Corps, who are currently rehearsing and preparing for their 2018 DCI Open-Class Season. 

Thanks to Katelynn Hyde, a 4th year Guard Sergeant and Victor You, a 2nd year Drum Sergeant for answering all of our questions about their preparation for the season ahead!

So, Katelynn and Victor...

What does a typical day look like during Spring Training?

K: A typical day starts with PT, stretch, and full corps dance block, where we move right into visual. We will usually have visual until lunch, then next block is sectionals, followed by dinner, and then finally we have ensemble after a quick rewarm with our sections.

V: A day usually consists of waking up to a random song picked by our drum major Leslie. Then it’s off to breakfast, then PT and dance, visual, sometimes the battery goes into sectionals, and then lunch. Then the battery will continue sectionals and sometimes we split up into subs. After that, the corps has dinner. Following dinner, is a quick rewarm and then we’ll run right into ensemble. After finishing the run, the corps goes back inside and continue sectionals. We’ll have snack afterwards and then it’s lights out. Rinse and repeat…

Do you stay at one location during Spring Training?
V: Yeah

When does Spring Training end?

K: Mini tour training ends June 29th

How much down time do you get a day, and what do you like to fill it with? 
K: I typically have some down time during meals and i like to spend it talking with my friends, or relaxing

V: Usually meal times and lights out are my down times. I would spend the time catching up with other sections in the corps. Also I can’t lose my snapchat streaks too…

What are the 5 things that you HAVE to have during Spring Training? 
K: WATER!!, sunscreen, good sneakers, good attitude, and bungee cords 

V: Any tools for the drums, lots of pencils, water is kinda important, high, but controlled energy, and a smile

What is the thing you are most excited about for the season? 
K: 7th is going in a great direction with our show and I can’t wait to see how it turns out! 

V: The whole vibe of the corps is certainly different, but it is definitely amazing. From the musical selections, drill, and energy that the corps offers, I know that we will do great things.

What food does everyone look forward to the most during Spring Training?

K: Chicken patties

V: Pasta night is tight

How many times do you get to do laundry? 

K: Once every two weeks

What luxuries do you miss from home? 

K: Driving my own car

V: Coffee

Do you have any pre-performance ritual? 

K: I go through any handshakes I have with people, and then we all come to together as a corps for a pep talk and to sing our corps song

Thank you, Katelynn and Victor for answering our questions and giving us insights into your spring training!
We wish you all the best as the DCI Open Class season gets underway NEXT WEEK!

Stay tuned in July to hear from one of our other Corps about

What Goes into a Show Day!

DCI Spring Training Reveal - Boston Crusaders

The 2017 Boston Crusaders Present: Wicked Games

In October of 2016, Band Shoppe's Design Team met with the new Artistic Director for the Boston Crusaders, Keith Potter, to discuss initial design concepts for the corps. We knew that we would have a challenge before us — design a signature look with timeless elements to help the members look tall, strong, and consistent, that could also adapt to the ever-changing show themes. This uniform should incorporate removable elements and that should allow for maximum mobility. All this, while also producing a uniform durable enough to stand up to the rigorous wear of these talented athletes over the course of a few years. This initial vest concept was developed by Band Shoppe's team without context or show theme in mind.

Once the main vest was approved, we finally received the show theme of "Wicked Games," a dark and complex interplay based loosely on the Salem Witch Trials. Keith wanted a fresh and modern take on the theme. The guard uniforms were to feel youthful and innocent with a more imposing aesthetic for the corps. With show theme in mind, Band Shoppe's team went to work with Keith’s direction creating sketches and samples until everything was just right.

photos courtesy of the Boston Crusaders

The result was an exercise in balance — from the pairing of traditional polyester with spandex stretch wear to incorporating digital elements with dimensional straps, flounces, and drops. Movement and breathability are key with these versatile uniforms as drum corps continue to blend elements of dance.

It is modern in it's presentation of conceptual textures and that it will allow performers to move in a way that we see drum corps going today.

— Keith Potter, Artistic Director for the Boston Crusaders

Band Shoppe is proud to present the uniforms for the Boston Crusaders 2017 show “Wicked Games.” See their new uniforms in action when the Crusaders head to Southern Indiana for DRUMS on the OHIO Presented by Band Shoppe on June 28 at the Reitz Bowl.

Are you ready for next season? We are!

photo courtesy of The Boston Crusaders

Every spring, about this time, directors all over the country start prepping for their summer and fall marching seasons. Some years we get off to a head start, other years we just pray that the show is done before the last performance. What is it that separates the very best of the best from those that merely show up to gate? It's probably safe to say that all successful programs are led by an individual(s) that are highly organized, goal oriented, and strategic. This year, make a commitment to stay on top of your "to-do" lists. Plan early and don't wait until the last minute to get organized. You'll be glad you did!

If the unexpected does happen, just know that Band Shoppe is here to help with those "Uh Oh!" situations that come up. That's why we carry a huge selection of quality in-stock products. Many items ship out within 1-2 business days! This year we have stayed on top of our game and have produced what we feel is the best catalog to date. It's filled with hundreds of new products that are sure to help your group look, sound, and perform their absolute best. If you're not on our mailing list, make sure to request your 2016 Master Catalog. Are you ready for next season? We are.